Ulmus alata ~ Winged Elm size-30-g while the upper stems gain

while the upper stems gain bright red hues

inconspicuous clusters of white summer flowers

IMAGES: Syrio

attracting bees and butterflies in summer

The stiff upright stems sport a profuse bloom of clear blue flowers in spring

Ulmus alata ~ Winged Elm size-30-g while the upper stems gainWinged Elm is a native deciduous tree with upward arching branches forming a rounded crown, and small cork like wings on the branches. The serrated, rough dark green leaves with asymmetrical bases often turn an undistinguished dull yellow in fall. Inconspicuous reddish green flowers bloom in spring before the foliage and give way to papery wing like seed pods that mature mid spring. Grows best with full sun and rich, moist well drained soils.